Apparatus and method for connectivity in networks capable of non-disruptively disconnecting peripheral devices

ABSTRACT

An apparatus and method for connectivity in networks configured for non-disruptive disconnection of one or more peripheral devices are disclosed. The apparatus includes a first logical layer associated with a first peripheral device, the first peripheral device arranged in a network configured for non-disruptive disconnection of at least one peripheral device, at least a second logical layer associated with at least a second peripheral device, the at least a second peripheral device arranged in the network configured for non-disruptive disconnection of at least one peripheral device, at least one power source associated with the first logical layer and the at least a second logical layer, and a first electrically conductive link coupled to the first logical layer, the at least a second logical layer, and the at least one power source associated with the first logical layer and the at least a second logical layer.

RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application is related to commonly assigned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/608,905 entitled “APPARATUS FOR NON-DISRUPTIVELY DISCONNECTING A PERIPHERAL DEVICE”, filed on Dec. 11, 2006, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention is related to the telecommunications field, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to an apparatus and method for connectivity in networks capable of non-disruptively disconnecting peripheral devices, such as for example, networks including peripheral devices used in robust applications.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Plug and play (PnP) systems are used in virtually all personal computers and numerous computer-controlled machines as well. PnP systems, which are also known as hot-swapping systems, allow connections and disconnections of peripheral devices to a host system without manual installation of device drivers or a reboot of the host system.

A principle feature of a PnP system is its ability to automatically reconfigure a communication bus after the connection or disconnection of a peripheral device (“peripheral”). When a communication bus of the PnP system observes a change in the peripheral layout, the bus initiates a reset. A connect or disconnect of a peripheral is recognized by sensing the power to the peripheral or by a special circuit on the peripheral's connector. The reconfiguration process recognizes and reacquires all of the peripherals connected to the bus to ensure that each peripheral is properly loaded in the host system and is given access to the communication bus. The reconfiguration process must reconfigure all of the peripherals connected to the bus even if only one peripheral is connected or disconnected, in order to ensure that no peripherals are in conflict. The reconfiguration process recognizes any newly connected peripheral, and automatically retrieves and loads the drivers for that peripheral. Conversely, if a peripheral is disconnected, the reconfiguration process disables the peripheral's drivers within the system, and assigns that peripheral's time slot to another device. Some examples of commonly known PnP systems include Universal Serial Bus (USB), FireWire (IEEE 1394 protocol), and Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI).

Existing communication buses typically include interfaces that allow devices to interact with the communication bus by converting the devices' complex commands and data into bit level data that can be transmitted over the bus. Many such interfaces are operated in accordance with protocols that are divided into layers. The layered design divides the functions of the protocol involved into a series of logical layers. Each layer requests services from the layer below and performs services for the layer above. Layering a protocol makes it easier to design and use. For example, the IEEE 1394 protocol is divided into a physical layer, a link layer, and a transaction layer.

The highest layer of the IEEE 1394 protocol is the transaction layer, which is responsible for reading, writing, and conveying other high level commands to and from each communicating device. The middle layer is the link layer, which handles data at a packet level. The lowest layer is the physical layer, which is responsible for actually transmitting and receiving data over the bus (including arbitration with the bus). Beyond the physical layer, the data is conveyed on the bus and is handled by another device. Consequently, the physical layer may be viewed as a junction between a peripheral and the other devices. Thus, the hardware connectors of a peripheral are located at the junction of the physical layer and the communication bus.

In existing PnP systems, such as for example, the PnP systems used in spacecraft, the communication bus is often configured so that the peripherals are daisy-chained together. This technique places each peripheral one behind the other along a communication stream. Consequently, a message that is transmitted to one peripheral must be passed on by, or allowed to be passed through, that peripheral to the next peripheral in the chain. For example, in order for a message to be passed from a host to the fifth peripheral in a chain, the first four peripherals in the chain must forward the message before it can arrive at the fifth peripheral. Consequently, since any peripheral in the chain depends upon the viability of the peripherals upstream, if one peripheral is incapable of forwarding data, then all of the peripherals downstream from that peripheral will lose communication with the host. Thus, a significant problem with the existing systems is that if a peripheral is disconnected from the communication bus, the bus has to be reconfigured in order to remove the disconnected peripheral from the chain.

In the above-described, related U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/608,905 (“the '905 application”), a novel method and apparatus is disclosed that solves the above-described problem, by allowing disconnection of a peripheral from a communication bus without causing disruption to other peripherals on the bus. This non-disruptive disconnection is accomplished by physically disconnecting the peripheral from the communication bus without causing a reconfiguration of the bus. More precisely, the non-disruptive disconnection is accomplished by placing the physical connector for the peripheral between the interfaces for the physical layer and link layer of the protocol involved. Before a peripheral is disconnected, the link layer is disabled. However, the physical layer remains enabled while the peripheral is being disconnected, because the arrangement of the peripheral's connector at the interface between the physical layer and the link layer enables the peripheral to be removed without removing the physical layer. Thus, based on the novel techniques disclosed in the '905 application, the communication bus does not have to be reconfigured after a peripheral is disconnected, because the bus can still communicate with all of the same physical layers it communicated with before the peripheral was disconnected.

Notwithstanding the numerous advantages of the novel techniques disclosed in the '905 application, there is no technique that currently exists that can provide suitable connectivity for those networks that are configured to implement the techniques disclosed in the '905 application. For example, with the implementation of new high speed interfaces such as those included in the IEEE 1394 or 1394(a)(b) protocols targeted for space and military applications, such requirements as performance, power, weight and size have to justify the choice. Considering the example of the IEEE 1394 protocol, existing network configuration topologies can provide reduced power, weight and size but with continued susceptibility to broken links, or they can provide robust connectivity for broken links at the expense of reduced power, weight and size. Thus, in order to take full advantage of the novel configurations disclosed in the '905 application, suitable network connectivity (e.g., cabling, etc.) has to be provided. In other words, there are no suitable active cables or cable assemblies for networks that can be implemented using the separated physical layer and link layer interfaces disclosed in the '905 application. Consequently, the existing networks are unable to capitalize on all of the potential advantages and benefits of the novel techniques disclosed in the '905 application.

For example, FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of an example IEEE 1394b network 100, which is arranged in a semi-robust configuration including separated physical layer and link layer interfaces as disclosed in the '905 application. Note that in this illustrative example, no peripheral devices are shown. As such, network 100 includes a first link layer segment 102, a first physical layer segment 104, and a standard connection between these two logical segments. Also included is a second physical layer segment 108, a second link layer segment 112, and a robust connector 110 (e.g., separated at the physical layer and link layer interfaces) between these two logical segments. Network 100 also includes a third physical layer segment 116, a third link layer segment 120, and a robust connector 118 (e.g., separated at the physical layer and link layer interfaces) between these two logical segments. However, note that in the example network configuration shown in FIG. 1, three physical interconnecting cables 106, 114 and 122 are being used. Notably, the number of different physical connections in the existing network configurations is proportional to the number of physical interconnecting cables being used. As illustrated by the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the existing networks require physical layer to physical layer cabling in addition to physical layer to link layer connectivity. Consequently, the conventional cables or cable assemblies being used in the existing robust and semi-robust applications are not designed to minimize the number of physical connections used. Therefore, a pressing need exists for new techniques that can provide suitable connectivity (e.g., active cabling and/or cabling assemblies that can minimize the number of physical connections required) in those networks capable of non-disruptively disconnecting peripheral devices, such as for example, networks capable of implementing the non-disruptive disconnection techniques disclosed in the '905 application. Also, a need exists for new techniques that can provide suitable connectivity for the physical layer in the new robust applications, because the physical layer will no longer reside in the remote devices but rather as part of the physical connectivity or cabling in the robust designs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first example embodiment, an apparatus for connectivity in networks configured for non-disruptive disconnection of one or more peripheral devices is provided. The apparatus includes a first logical layer associated with a first peripheral device, the first peripheral device arranged in a network configured for non-disruptive disconnection of at least one peripheral device, at least a second logical layer associated with at least a second peripheral device, the at least a second peripheral device arranged in the network configured for non-disruptive disconnection of at least one peripheral device, at least one power source associated with the first logical layer and the at least a second logical layer, and a first electrically conductive link coupled to the first logical layer, the at least a second logical layer, and the at least one power source associated with the first logical layer and the at least a second logical layer.

In a second example embodiment, an active cable assembly for a robust application in a network of peripheral devices is provided. The apparatus includes at least a first peripheral device, a first physical layer and a first link layer associated with the at least a first peripheral device, a first connector arranged at a junction of the first physical layer and the first link layer, at least a second peripheral device, a second physical layer and a second link layer associated with the at least a second peripheral device, a second connector arranged at a junction of the second physical layer and the second link layer, a physical layer power source, and a first cable coupled to the first physical layer, the second physical layer, and the physical layer power source.

In a third example embodiment, a method for connectivity in networks configured for non-disruptive disconnection of one or more peripheral devices is provided. The method includes the steps of associating a first logical layer with a first peripheral device in a network configured for non-disruptive disconnection of at least one peripheral device, associating a second logical layer with a second peripheral device in the network configured for non-disruptive disconnection of at least one peripheral device, associating a power source with the first logical layer and the second logical layer, and coupling a first electrically conductive link to the first logical layer, the second logical layer, and the power source.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the invention are set forth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of an example IEEE 1394b network, which is arranged in a semi-robust configuration including separated physical layer and link layer interfaces;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are related block diagrams depicting two active connector assemblies, which can be used to implement one or more example embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are related block diagrams depicting two active connector assemblies, which can be used to implement one or more example embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are related block diagrams depicting two active connector assemblies, which can be used to implement one or more example embodiments of the present invention; and

FIGS. 5A and 5B are related block diagrams depicting two active connector assemblies, which can be used to implement one or more example embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Essentially, the present invention provides suitable connectivity (e.g., active cabling and/or cabling assemblies) in networks capable of non-disruptively disconnecting peripheral devices, such as for example, networks capable of implementing the non-disruptive disconnection techniques disclosed in the '905 application. By configuring a network with peripheral devices including interfaces that are separated at the physical layer and link layer boundaries, the physical layer's repeater functionality can remain intact when the peripheral device is disconnected, has failed, or has been shut down. Thus, the robustness of the network remains intact and unchanged, and the result is a network with a relatively low cost, low power, small size and robust technology. For one or more example embodiments, the present invention provides active cables, active cable assemblies, and/or active connectors (e.g., including connectivity for the physical layer's power source), which encapsulate the physical layer components of the networks involved and minimize the number of physical connections required.

With reference again to the figures, FIGS. 2A and 2B are related block diagrams depicting two active connector assemblies 200 a and 200 b, which can be used to implement one or more example embodiments of the present invention. For illustrative purposes in the example embodiments shown, the two connector assemblies 200 a and 200 b may represent similar connector assemblies that can be used, for example, in networks being operated in accordance with the IEEE 1394b protocol.

Note that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, only two-node physical layer interfaces are shown. In other words, each physical layer segment shown in this illustrative example includes two matching and biasing networks and two cable connections. However, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of nodes for the physical layer interfaces involved. For example, the present invention might include physical layer segments with three matching and biasing networks and three cable connections each. If more than three nodes per physical layer segment are to be used, the last device in the chain could require only a single node. If that device were to be disconnected robustly, that function could be accomplished with a single node, robust interface.

Also note that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, only four devices (one pseudo-master device and three remote devices) are shown. However, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of devices for the network configuration involved. Albeit, as a practical matter, the maximum number of devices is typically dictated by the bus specifications involved. For example, in accordance with the IEEE 1394 bus specifications, a maximum of 63 devices can be connected to one bus. In any event, a typical network configuration can include a substantial number of devices, and the present invention can be implemented using some or all of the devices involved.

Note further that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, only one physical layer power source is shown. However, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of physical layer power sources for the network configuration involved. For example, depending on the number of devices on the bus involved, more than one physical layer power source may be provided. The one or more physical layer power source(s) provided can be internal to the physical layer, external to the physical layer, or one or more combinations thereof. Proper implementation can be assured by suitable routing and connection of the cabling involved.

Essentially, for the example embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention provides respective active connector assemblies that encapsulate the IEEE 1394b physical layer segments, cable matching and biasing resistor networks, cabling and cable connectors, and the connectors that provide the physical layer to link layer interfaces. For example, the exemplary connector assemblies 200 a, 200 b shown can be produced using manufacturing techniques similar to those used to create Multi-Chip Modules (MCM), which can be used to build very small connector assemblies that can be plugged into link layers on one end and IEEE 1394b cables on the other end. As an option, the cable assemblies can be permanently attached in order to reduce the size, weight and cost of the cable connectors, or the physical layer connector assembly can be manufactured to accommodate standard cable connections. Also, the physical layer connector assemblies will provide power connectivity, so as optional alternatives, for example, the physical layer's power source can be: (1) created internally to the connector and used exclusively in the connector; (2) created internally to the connector and used in the connector as a power source for some or all of the other physical layer connectors in the network; (3) powered from the cable and sourced from another physical layer or an external supply; and/or (4) supplied externally and independently from all of the physical layers to provide a power source for some or all of the physical layer devices involved. In sum, the present invention provides active cables, active cable assemblies and/or active connectors that can accommodate the novel technique of non-disruptively disconnecting peripheral devices in networks including robust physical layer/link layer connections, as well as hybrid networks including both standard and robust connections.

For some embodiments, the present invention may be used to implement active connector assemblies for other types of networks or applications, such as for example, Ethernet networks, USB interfaces, and the like. Essentially, the present invention may be used in any type of network or application where the power source for the physical layer can be separated from the physical layer segments and link layer segments involved.

Specifically, the exemplary connector assembly 200 a shown in FIG. 2A includes a first link layer segment 202 a, a connector 204 a for the first link layer segment 202 a, a first physical layer segment 208 a, and a connector 206 a for the first physical layer segment 208 a. The connectors 204 a, 206 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The first physical layer segment 208 a includes a first matching and biasing network 210 a and a second matching and biasing network 214 a. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the first link layer segment 202 a, first physical layer segment 208 a, and matching connectors 204 a, 206 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved.

For one or more example embodiments, connector assembly 200 a also includes a second physical layer segment 220 a, a connector 222 a for the second physical layer segment 220 a, a second link layer segment 226 a, and a connector 224 a for the second link layer segment 226 a. The connectors 222 a, 224 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The second physical layer segment 220 a includes a first matching and biasing network 218 a and a second matching and biasing network 228 a. An active cable segment 212 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 210 a of physical layer segment 208 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 218 a of physical layer segment 220 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the second physical layer segment 220 a, second link layer segment 226 a, and matching connectors 222 a, 224 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 212 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 208 a, 220 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 200 a also includes a third physical layer segment 234 a, a connector 236 a for the third physical layer segment 234 a, a third link layer segment 240 a, and a connector 238 a for the third link layer segment 240 a. The connectors 236 a, 238 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The third physical layer segment 234 a includes a first matching and biasing network 232 a and a second matching and biasing network 242 a. An active cable segment 230 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 228 a of the second physical layer segment 220 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 232 a of the third physical layer segment 234 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the third physical layer segment 234 a, third link layer segment 240 a, and matching connectors 236 a, 238 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 230 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 220 a, 234 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 200 a also includes a fourth physical layer segment 248 a, a connector 250 a for the fourth physical layer segment 248 a, a fourth link layer segment 254 a, and a connector 252 a for the fourth link layer segment 254 a. The connectors 250 a, 252 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The fourth physical layer segment 248 a includes a first matching and biasing network 246 a and a second matching and biasing network 256 a. An active cable segment 244 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 242 a of the third physical layer segment 234 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 246 a of the fourth physical layer segment 248 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the fourth physical layer segment 248 a, fourth link layer segment 254 a, and matching connectors 250 a, 252 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 244 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 234 a, 248 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 200 a also includes an active cable segment 216 a connected to the matching and biasing network 256 a of the fourth physical layer segment 248 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 214 a of the first physical layer segment 208 a on the second end. Thus, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 216 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 208 a, 248 a. Also, the exemplary connector assembly 200 a includes an external physical layer power source 258 a, which is coupled to the active cable segment 216 a by a power source connection 260 a. Consequently, in accordance with the present invention, the active cables 212 a, 230 a, 244 a and 216 a provide signal and power source connectivity to each of the physical layer segments 208 a, 220 a, 234 a and 248 a in the IEEE 1394b network involved. Notably, for the one or more example embodiments that can be implemented using the connector assembly 200 a, the connector assembly can be encapsulated to provide a fixed cable construction using a suitable encapsulation material such as, for example, a plastic, ceramic, or metallic material. In other embodiments, the connector assembly 200 a can be formed as one unit in a flexible or semi-stiff construction. In any event, the encapsulation of the exemplary connector assembly 200 a is identified generally by the label 262 a.

Referring now to FIG. 2B for one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 200 b can be similar in construction and functionality as connector assembly 200 a shown in FIG. 2A. Note, however, that a primary difference between connector assembly 200 a and connector assembly 200 b is that connector assembly 200 a provides an external power source for the physical layer segments, and connector assembly 200 b provides an internal power source for the physical layer segments.

Specifically, for one or more example embodiments, the connector assembly 200 b shown in FIG. 2B includes a first link layer segment 202 b, a connector 204 b for the first link layer segment 202 b, a first physical layer segment 208 b, and a connector 206 b for the first physical layer segment 208 b. The connectors 204 b, 206 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The first physical layer segment 208 b includes a first matching and biasing network 210 b and a second matching and biasing network 214 b. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the first link layer segment 202 b, first physical layer segment 208 b, and matching connectors 204 b, 206 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 200 b also includes a second physical layer segment 220 b, a connector 222 b for the second physical layer segment 220 b, a second link layer segment 226 b, and a connector 224 b for the second link layer segment 226 b. The connectors 222 b, 224 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The second physical layer segment 220 b includes a first matching and biasing network 218 b and a second matching and biasing network 228 b. An active cable segment 212 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 210 b of physical layer segment 208 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 218 b of physical layer segment 220 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the second physical layer segment 220 b, second link layer segment 226 b, and matching connectors 222 b, 224 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 212 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 208 b, 220 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 200 b also includes a third physical layer segment 234 b, a connector 236 b for the third physical layer segment 234 b, a third link layer segment 240 b, and a connector 238 b for the third link layer segment 240 b. The connectors 236 b, 238 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The third physical layer segment 234 b includes a first matching and biasing network 232 b and a second matching and biasing network 242 b. An active cable segment 230 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 228 b of the second physical layer segment 220 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 232 b of the third physical layer segment 234 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the third physical layer segment 234 b, third link layer segment 240 b, and matching connectors 236 b, 238 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 230 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 220 b, 234 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 200 b also includes a fourth physical layer segment 248 b, a connector 250 b for the fourth physical layer segment 248 b, a fourth link layer segment 254 b, and a connector 252 b for the fourth link layer segment 254 b. The connectors 250 b, 252 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The fourth physical layer segment 248 b includes a first matching and biasing network 246 b and a second matching and biasing network 256 b. An active cable segment 244 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 242 b of the third physical layer segment 234 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 246 b of the fourth physical layer segment 248 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the fourth physical layer segment 248 b, fourth link layer segment 254 b, and matching connectors 250 b, 252 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 244 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 234 b, 248 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 200 b also includes an active cable segment 216 b connected to the matching and biasing network 256 b of the fourth physical layer segment 248 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 214 b of the first physical layer segment 208 b on the second end. Thus, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 216 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 208 b, 248 b. Note that the exemplary connector assembly 200 b also includes an internal physical layer power source 258 b, which is coupled to the active cable segment 216 b by a power source connection 260 b. Consequently, in accordance with the present invention, the active cables 212 b, 230 b, 244 b and 216 b provide signal and power source connectivity to each of the physical layer segments 208 b, 220 b, 234 b and 248 b in the IEEE 1394b network involved. Notably, for the one or more example embodiments that can be implemented using the connector assembly 200 b, the connector assembly can be encapsulated to provide a fixed cable construction using a suitable encapsulation material such as, for example, a plastic, ceramic, or metallic material. In other embodiments, the connector assembly 200 b can be formed as one unit in a flexible or semi-stiff construction. In any event, the encapsulation of the exemplary connector assembly 200 b is identified generally by the label 262 b.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are related block diagrams depicting two active connector assemblies 300 a and 300 b, which can be used to implement one or more example embodiments of the present invention. For illustrative purposes in the example embodiments shown, the two connector assemblies 300 a and 300 b may represent similar connector assemblies that can be used, for example, in networks being operated in accordance with the IEEE 1394b protocol.

Note that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, only two-node physical layer interfaces are shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of nodes for the physical layer interfaces involved. For example, the present invention might include physical layer segments with three matching and biasing networks and three cable connections each. If more than three nodes per physical layer segment are to be used, the last device in the chain could require only a single node. If that device were to be disconnected robustly, that function could be accomplished with a single node, robust interface.

Also note that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, only four devices (one pseudo-master device and three remote devices) are shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of devices for the network configuration involved. For example, in accordance with the IEEE 1394 bus specifications, a maximum of 63 devices can be connected to one bus. In any event, a typical network configuration can include a substantial number of devices, and the present invention can be implemented using some or all of the devices involved.

Note further that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, only one physical layer power source is shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of physical layer power sources for the network configuration involved. For example, depending on the number of devices on the bus involved, more than one physical layer power source may be provided. The one or more physical layer power source(s) provided can be internal to the physical layer, external to the physical layer, or one or more combinations thereof. Proper implementation can be assured by suitable routing and connection of the cabling involved.

Essentially, for the example embodiments shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the present invention provides respective active connector assemblies that encapsulate the IEEE 1394b physical layer segments, cable matching and biasing resistor networks, cabling and cable connectors, and the connectors that provide the physical layer to link layer interfaces. For example, the exemplary connector assemblies 300 a, 300 b shown can be produced using manufacturing techniques similar to those described above with respect to connector assemblies 200 a, 200 b shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In sum, for the example embodiments shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the present invention provides active cables, active cable assemblies and/or active connectors that can accommodate the novel technique of non-disruptively disconnecting peripheral devices in hybrid networks including robust physical layer/link layer connections and standard connections.

Specifically, the exemplary connector assembly 300 a shown in FIG. 3A includes a standard peripheral connection including a first link layer segment 302 a, directly connected to a first physical layer segment 308 a, a connector 304 a for the standard peripheral connection, and a second connector 306 a. The connectors 304 a and 306 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The first physical layer segment 308 a includes a first matching and biasing network 310 a and a second matching and biasing network 314 a. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the first link layer segment 302 a, first physical layer segment 308 a, and matching connectors 304 a, 306 a compose a standard connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, which cannot be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Thus, as described in more detail below, connector assembly 300 a is a hybrid connection assembly including both standard and robust peripheral connections.

For one or more example embodiments, connector assembly 300 a also includes a second physical layer segment 320 a, a connector 322 a for the second physical layer segment 320 a, a second link layer segment 326 a, and a connector 324 a for the second link layer segment 326 a. The connectors 322 a, 324 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The second physical layer segment 320 a includes a first matching and biasing network 318 a and a second matching and biasing network 328 a. An active cable segment 312 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 310 a of physical layer segment 308 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 318 a of physical layer segment 320 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the second physical layer segment 320 a, second link layer segment 326 a, and matching connectors 322 a, 324 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the 1394b network involved. However, in contrast to the exemplary embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the active cable segment 312 a shown in FIG. 3A does not provide non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 308 a, 320 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 300 a also includes a third physical layer segment 334 a, a connector 336 a for the third physical layer segment 334 a, a third link layer segment 340 a, and a connector 338 a for the third link layer segment 340 a. The connectors 336 a, 338 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The third physical layer segment 334 a includes a first matching and biasing network 332 a and a second matching and biasing network 342 a. An active cable segment 330 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 328 a of the second physical layer segment 320 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 332 a of the third physical layer segment 334 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the third physical layer segment 334 a, third link layer segment 340 a, and matching connectors 336 a, 338 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 330 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 320 a, 334 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 300 a also includes a fourth physical layer segment 348 a, a connector 350 a for the fourth physical layer segment 348 a, a fourth link layer segment 354 a, and a connector 352 a for the fourth link layer segment 354 a. The connectors 350 a, 352 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The fourth physical layer segment 348 a includes a first matching and biasing network 346 a and a second matching and biasing network 356 a. An active cable segment 344 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 342 a of the third physical layer segment 334 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 346 a of the fourth physical layer segment 348 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the fourth physical layer segment 348 a, fourth link layer segment 354 a, and matching connectors 350 a, 352 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 344 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 334 a, 348 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 300 a also includes an active cable segment 316 a connected to the matching and biasing network 356 a of the fourth physical layer segment 348 a on one end, and on the second end to a standard connector 317 a that can be connected to a standard connector 315 a associated with the first physical layer segment 308 a of the standard peripheral connection shown. Also, the exemplary connector assembly 300 a includes an external physical layer power source 358 a, which is coupled to the active cable segment 316 a by a power source connection 360 a. Consequently, in accordance with the present invention, the active cables 312 a, 330 a, 344 a and 316 a provide signal and power source connectivity to each of the robust physical layer segments 320 a, 334 a and 348 a in the IEEE 1394b network involved. Notably, for the one or more example embodiments that can be implemented using the connector assembly 300 a, the connector assembly can be encapsulated to provide a fixed cable construction using a suitable encapsulation material such as, for example, a plastic, ceramic, or metallic material. In other embodiments, the connector assembly 300 a can be formed as one unit in a flexible or semi-stiff construction. In any event, the encapsulation of the exemplary connector assembly 300 a is identified generally by the label 362 a.

Referring now to FIG. 3B for one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 300 b can be similar in construction and functionality as connector assembly 300 a shown in FIG. 3A. As such, connector assembly 300 b includes a standard connection and a plurality of robust connections. Note, however, that a primary difference between connector assembly 300 a and connector assembly 300 b is that connector assembly 300 a provides an external power source for the physical layer segments, and connector assembly 300 b provides an internal power source for the physical layer segments.

Specifically, the exemplary connector assembly 300 b shown in FIG. 3B includes a standard peripheral connection including a first link layer segment 302 b, directly connected to a first physical layer segment 308 b, a connector 304 b for the standard peripheral connection, and a second connector 306 b. The connectors 304 b and 306 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The first physical layer segment 308 b includes a first matching and biasing network 310 b and a second matching and biasing network 314 b. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the first link layer segment 302 b, first physical layer segment 308 b, and matching connectors 304 b, 306 b compose a standard connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, which cannot be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Thus, as described in more detail below, connector assembly 300 b is a hybrid connection assembly including both standard and robust peripheral connections.

For one or more example embodiments, connector assembly 300 b also includes a second physical layer segment 320 b, a connector 322 b for the second physical layer segment 320 b, a second link layer segment 326 b, and a connector 324 b for the second link layer segment 326 b. The connectors 322 b, 324 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The second physical layer segment 320 b includes a first matching and biasing network 318 b and a second matching and biasing network 328 b. An active cable segment 312 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 310 b of physical layer segment 308 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 318 b of physical layer segment 320 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the second physical layer segment 320 b, second link layer segment 326 b, and matching connectors 322 b, 324 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the 1394b network involved. However, in contrast to the exemplary embodiments depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the active cable segment 312 b shown in FIG. 3B does not provide non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 308 b, 320 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 300 b also includes a third physical layer segment 334 b, a connector 336 b for the third physical layer segment 334 b, a third link layer segment 340 b, and a connector 338 b for the third link layer segment 340 b. The connectors 336 b, 338 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The third physical layer segment 334 b includes a first matching and biasing network 332 b and a second matching and biasing network 342 b. An active cable segment 330 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 328 b of the second physical layer segment 320 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 332 b of the third physical layer segment 334 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the third physical layer segment 334 b, third link layer segment 340 b, and matching connectors 336 b, 338 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 330 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 320 b, 334 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 300 b also includes a fourth physical layer segment 348 b, a connector 350 b for the fourth physical layer segment 348 b, a fourth link layer segment 354 b, and a connector 352 b for the fourth link layer segment 354 b. The connectors 350 b, 352 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The fourth physical layer segment 348 b includes a first matching and biasing network 346 b and a second matching and biasing network 356 b. An active cable segment 344 ba is connected to the matching and biasing network 342 b of the third physical layer segment 334 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 346 b of the fourth physical layer segment 348 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the fourth physical layer segment 348 b, fourth link layer segment 354 b, and matching connectors 350 b, 352 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 344 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 334 b, 348 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 300 b also includes an active cable segment 316 b connected to the matching and biasing network 356 b of the fourth physical layer segment 348 b on one end, and on the second end to a standard connector 317 b that can be connected to a standard connector 315 b associated with the first physical layer segment 308 b of the standard peripheral connection shown. Also, the exemplary connector assembly 300 b includes an internal physical layer power source 358 b, which can be coupled to the active cable segment 316 b by a power source connection 360 b. Consequently, in accordance with the present invention, the active cables 312 b, 330 b, 344 b and 316 b can provide signal and power source connectivity to each of the robust physical layer segments 320 b, 334 b and 348 b in the IEEE 1394b network involved. Notably, for the one or more example embodiments that can be implemented using the connector assembly 300 b, the connector assembly can be encapsulated to provide a fixed cable construction using a suitable encapsulation material such as, for example, a plastic, ceramic, or metallic material. In other embodiments, the connector assembly 300 b can be formed as one unit in a flexible or semi-stiff construction. In any event, the encapsulation of the exemplary connector assembly 300 b is identified generally by the label 362 b.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are related block diagrams depicting two active connector assemblies 400 a and 400 b, which can be used to implement one or more example embodiments of the present invention. For illustrative purposes in the example embodiments shown, the two connector assemblies 400 a and 400 b may represent similar connector assemblies that can be used, for example, in networks being operated in accordance with the IEEE 1394b protocol.

Note that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, only two-node physical layer interfaces are shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of nodes for the physical layer interfaces involved. For example, the present invention might include physical layer segments with three matching and biasing networks and three cable connections each. If more than three nodes per physical layer segment are to be used, the last device in the chain could require only a single node. If that device were to be disconnected robustly, that function could be accomplished with a single node, robust interface.

Also note that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, only four devices (one pseudo-master device and three remote devices) are shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of devices for the network configuration involved. For example, in accordance with the IEEE 1394 bus specifications, a maximum of 63 devices can be connected to one bus. In any event, a typical network configuration can include a substantial number of devices, and the present invention can be implemented using some or all of the devices involved.

Note further that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, only one physical layer power source is shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of physical layer power sources for the network configuration involved. For example, depending on the number of devices on the bus involved, more than one physical layer power source may be provided. The one or more physical layer power source(s) provided can be internal to the physical layer, external to the physical layer, or one or more combinations thereof. Proper implementation can be assured by suitable routing and connection of the cabling involved.

Essentially, for the example embodiments shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the present invention provides respective non-encapsulated active connector assemblies that are similar in functionality to the encapsulated active connector assemblies 200 a, 200 b depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B.

Specifically, the exemplary connector assembly 400 a shown in FIG. 4A includes a first link layer segment 402 a, a connector 404 a for the first link layer segment 402 a, a first physical layer segment 408 a, and a connector 406 a for the first physical layer segment 408 a. The connectors 404 a, 406 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The first physical layer segment 408 a includes a first matching and biasing network 410 a and a second matching and biasing network 414 a. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the first link layer segment 402 a, first physical layer segment 408 a, and matching connectors 404 a, 406 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved.

For one or more example embodiments, connector assembly 400 a also includes a second physical layer segment 420 a, a connector 422 a for the second physical layer segment 420 a, a second link layer segment 426 a, and a connector 424 a for the second link layer segment 426 a. The connectors 422 a, 424 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The second physical layer segment 420 a includes a first matching and biasing network 418 a and a second matching and biasing network 428 a. An active cable segment 412 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 410 a of physical layer segment 408 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 418 a of physical layer segment 420 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the second physical layer segment 420 a, second link layer segment 426 a, and matching connectors 422 a, 424 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 412 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 408 a, 420 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 400 a also includes a third physical layer segment 434 a, a connector 436 a for the third physical layer segment 434 a, a third link layer segment 440 a, and a connector 438 a for the third link layer segment 440 a. The connectors 436 a, 438 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The third physical layer segment 434 a includes a first matching and biasing network 432 a and a second matching and biasing network 442 a. An active cable segment 430 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 428 a of the second physical layer segment 420 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 432 a of the third physical layer segment 434 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the third physical layer segment 434 a, third link layer segment 440 a, and matching connectors 436 a, 438 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 430 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 420 a, 434 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 400 a also includes a fourth physical layer segment 448 a, a connector 450 a for the fourth physical layer segment 448 a, a fourth link layer segment 454 a, and a connector 452 a for the fourth link layer segment 454 a. The connectors 450 a, 452 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The fourth physical layer segment 448 a includes a first matching and biasing network 446 a and a second matching and biasing network 456 a. An active cable segment 444 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 442 a of the third physical layer segment 434 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 446 a of the fourth physical layer segment 448 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the fourth physical layer segment 448 a, fourth link layer segment 454 a, and matching connectors 450 a, 452 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 444 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 434 a, 448 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 400 a also includes an active cable segment 416 a connected to the matching and biasing network 456 a of the fourth physical layer segment 448 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 414 a of the first physical layer segment 408 a on the second end. Thus, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 416 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 408 a, 448 a. Also, the exemplary connector assembly 400 a includes an external physical layer power source 458 a, which is coupled to the active cable segment 416 a by a power source connection 460 a. Consequently, in accordance with the present invention, the active cables 412 a, 430 a, 444 a and 416 a provide signal and power source connectivity to each of the physical layer segments 408 a, 420 a, 434 a and 448 a in the IEEE 1394b network involved.

Referring now to FIG. 4B for one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 400 b can be similar in construction and functionality as connector assembly 400 a shown in FIG. 4A. Note, however, that a primary difference between connector assembly 400 a and connector assembly 400 b is that connector assembly 400 a provides an external power source for the physical layer segments, and connector assembly 400 b provides an internal power source for the physical layer segments.

Specifically, for one or more example embodiments, the connector assembly 400 b shown in FIG. 4B includes a first link layer segment 402 b, a connector 404 b for the first link layer segment 402 b, a first physical layer segment 408 b, and a connector 406 b for the first physical layer segment 408 b. The connectors 404 b, 406 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The first physical layer segment 408 b includes a first matching and biasing network 410 b and a second matching and biasing network 414 b. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the first link layer segment 402 b, first physical layer segment 408 b, and matching connectors 404 b, 406 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 400 b also includes a second physical layer segment 420 b, a connector 422 b for the second physical layer segment 420 b, a second link layer segment 426 b, and a connector 424 b for the second link layer segment 426 b. The connectors 422 b, 424 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The second physical layer segment 420 b includes a first matching and biasing network 418 b and a second matching and biasing network 428 b. An active cable segment 412 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 410 b of physical layer segment 408 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 418 b of physical layer segment 420 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the second physical layer segment 420 b, second link layer segment 426 b, and matching connectors 422 b, 424 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 412 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 408 b, 420 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 400 b also includes a third physical layer segment 434 b, a connector 436 b for the third physical layer segment 434 b, a third link layer segment 440 b, and a connector 438 b for the third link layer segment 440 b. The connectors 436 b, 438 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The third physical layer segment 434 b includes a first matching and biasing network 432 b and a second matching and biasing network 442 b. An active cable segment 430 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 428 b of the second physical layer segment 420 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 432 b of the third physical layer segment 434 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the third physical layer segment 434 b, third link layer segment 440 b, and matching connectors 436 b, 438 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 430 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 420 b, 434 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 400 b also includes a fourth physical layer segment 448 b, a connector 450 b for the fourth physical layer segment 448 b, a fourth link layer segment 454 b, and a connector 452 b for the fourth link layer segment 454 b. The connectors 450 b, 452 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The fourth physical layer segment 448 b includes a first matching and biasing network 446 b and a second matching and biasing network 456 b. An active cable segment 444 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 442 b of the third physical layer segment 434 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 446 b of the fourth physical layer segment 448 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the fourth physical layer segment 448 b, fourth link layer segment 454 b, and matching connectors 450 b, 452 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 444 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 434 b, 448 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 400 b also includes an active cable segment 416 b connected to the matching and biasing network 456 b of the fourth physical layer segment 448 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 414 b of the first physical layer segment 408 b on the second end. Thus, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 416 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 408 b, 448 b. Note that the exemplary connector assembly 400 b also includes an internal physical layer power source 458 b, which is coupled to the active cable segment 416 b by a power source connection 460 b. Consequently, in accordance with the present invention, the active cables 412 b, 430 b, 444 b and 416 b provide signal and power source connectivity to each of the physical layer segments 408 b, 420 b, 434 b and 448 b in the IEEE 1394b network involved.

FIGS. 5A and 5B are related block diagrams depicting two active connector assemblies 500 a and 500 b, which can be used to implement one or more example embodiments of the present invention. For illustrative purposes in the example embodiments shown, the two connector assemblies 500 a and 500 b may represent similar connector assemblies that can be used, for example, in networks being operated in accordance with the IEEE 1394b protocol.

Note that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5A and 5B, only two-node physical layer interfaces are shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of nodes for the physical layer interfaces involved. For example, the present invention might include physical layer segments with three matching and biasing networks and three cable connections each. If more than three nodes per physical layer segment are to be used, the last device in the chain could require only a single node. If that device were to be disconnected robustly, that function could be accomplished with a single node, robust interface.

Also note that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5A and 5B, only four devices (one pseudo-master device and three remote devices) are shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of devices for the network configuration involved. For example, in accordance with the IEEE 1394 bus specifications, a maximum of 63 devices can be connected to one bus. In any event, a typical network configuration can include a substantial number of devices, and the present invention can be implemented using some or all of the devices involved.

Note further that, for the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5A and 5B, only one physical layer power source is shown. However, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the present invention is not intended to be so limited and can include any suitable number of physical layer power sources for the network configuration involved. For example, depending on the number of devices on the bus involved, more than one physical layer power source may be provided. The one or more physical layer power source(s) provided can be internal to the physical layer, external to the physical layer, or one or more combinations thereof. Proper implementation can be assured by suitable routing and connection of the cabling involved.

Essentially, for the example embodiments shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the present invention provides respective non-encapsulated active connector assemblies that are similar in functionality to the encapsulated active connector assemblies 300 a, 300 b depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B. As such, for the example embodiments shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the present invention provides active cables, active cable assemblies and/or active connectors that can accommodate the novel technique of non-disruptively disconnecting peripheral devices in hybrid networks including robust physical layer/link layer connections and standard connections.

Specifically, the exemplary connector assembly 500 a shown in FIG. 5A includes a standard peripheral connection including a first link layer segment 502 a, directly connected to a first physical layer segment 508 a, a connector 504 a for the standard peripheral connection, and a second connector 506 a. The connectors 504 a and 506 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The first physical layer segment 508 a includes a first matching and biasing network 510 a and a second matching and biasing network 514 a. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the first link layer segment 502 a, first physical layer segment 508 a, and matching connectors 504 a, 506 a compose a standard connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, which cannot be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Thus, as described in more detail below, connector assembly 500 a is a hybrid connection assembly including both standard and robust peripheral connections.

For one or more example embodiments, connector assembly 500 a also includes a second physical layer segment 520 a, a connector 522 a for the second physical layer segment 520 a, a second link layer segment 526 a, and a connector 524 a for the second link layer segment 526 a. The connectors 522 a, 524 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The second physical layer segment 520 a includes a first matching and biasing network 518 a and a second matching and biasing network 528 a. An active cable segment 512 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 510 a of physical layer segment 508 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 518 a of physical layer segment 520 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the second physical layer segment 520 a, second link layer segment 526 a, and matching connectors 522 a, 524 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the 1394b network involved. However, in contrast to the exemplary embodiments depicted in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the active cable segment 512 a shown in FIG. 5A does not provide non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 508 a, 520 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 500 a also includes a third physical layer segment 534 a, a connector 536 a for the third physical layer segment 534 a, a third link layer segment 540 a, and a connector 538 a for the third link layer segment 540 a. The connectors 536 a, 538 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The third physical layer segment 534 a includes a first matching and biasing network 532 a and a second matching and biasing network 542 a. An active cable segment 530 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 528 a of the second physical layer segment 520 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 532 a of the third physical layer segment 534 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the third physical layer segment 534 a, third link layer segment 540 a, and matching connectors 536 a, 538 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 530 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 520 a, 534 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 500 a also includes a fourth physical layer segment 548 a, a connector 550 a for the fourth physical layer segment 548 a, a fourth link layer segment 554 a, and a connector 552 a for the fourth link layer segment 554 a. The connectors 550 a, 552 a are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The fourth physical layer segment 548 a includes a first matching and biasing network 546 a and a second matching and biasing network 556 a. An active cable segment 544 a is connected to the matching and biasing network 542 a of the third physical layer segment 534 a on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 546 a of the fourth physical layer segment 548 a on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the fourth physical layer segment 548 a, fourth link layer segment 554 a, and matching connectors 550 a, 552 a compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 544 a provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 534 a, 548 a.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 500 a also includes an active cable segment 516 a connected to the matching and biasing network 556 a of the fourth physical layer segment 548 a on one end, and on the second end to a standard connector 517 a that can be connected to a standard connector 515 a associated with the first physical layer segment 508 a of the standard peripheral connection shown. Also, the exemplary connector assembly 500 a includes an external physical layer power source 558 a, which can be coupled to the active cable segment 516 a by a power source connection 560 a. Consequently, in accordance with the present invention, the active cables 512 a, 530 a, 544 a and 516 a can provide signal and power source connectivity to each of the robust physical layer segments 520 a, 534 a and 548 a in the IEEE 1394b network involved.

Referring now to FIG. 5B for one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 500 b can be similar in construction and functionality as connector assembly 500 a shown in FIG. 5A. As such, connector assembly 500 b includes a standard connection and a plurality of robust connections. Note, however, that a primary difference between connector assembly 500 a and connector assembly 500 b is that connector assembly 500 a provides an external power source for the physical layer segments, and connector assembly 500 b provides an internal power source for the physical layer segments.

Specifically, the exemplary connector assembly 500 b shown in FIG. 5B includes a standard peripheral connection including a first link layer segment 502 b, directly connected to a first physical layer segment 508 b, a connector 504 b for the standard peripheral connection, and a second connector 506 b. The connectors 504 b and 506 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The first physical layer segment 508 b includes a first matching and biasing network 510 b and a second matching and biasing network 514 b. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the first link layer segment 502 b, first physical layer segment 508 b, and matching connectors 504 b, 506 b compose a standard connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, which cannot be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Thus, as described in more detail below, connector assembly 500 b is a hybrid connection assembly including both standard and robust peripheral connections.

For one or more example embodiments, connector assembly 500 b also includes a second physical layer segment 520 b, a connector 522 b for the second physical layer segment 520 b, a second link layer segment 526 b, and a connector 524 b for the second link layer segment 526 b. The connectors 522 b, 524 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The second physical layer segment 520 b includes a first matching and biasing network 518 b and a second matching and biasing network 528 b. An active cable segment 512 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 510 b of physical layer segment 508 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 518 b of physical layer segment 520 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the second physical layer segment 520 b, second link layer segment 526 b, and matching connectors 522 b, 524 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the 1394b network involved. However, in contrast to the exemplary embodiments depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the active cable segment 512 b shown in FIG. 5B does not provide non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 508 b, 520 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 500 b also includes a third physical layer segment 534 b, a connector 536 b for the third physical layer segment 534 b, a third link layer segment 540 b, and a connector 538 b for the third link layer segment 540 b. The connectors 536 b, 538 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The third physical layer segment 534 b includes a first matching and biasing network 532 b and a second matching and biasing network 542 b. An active cable segment 530 b is connected to the matching and biasing network 528 b of the second physical layer segment 520 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 532 b of the third physical layer segment 534 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the third physical layer segment 534 b, third link layer segment 540 b, and matching connectors 536 b, 538 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 530 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 520 b, 534 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 500 b also includes a fourth physical layer segment 548 b, a connector 550 b for the fourth physical layer segment 548 b, a fourth link layer segment 554 b, and a connector 552 b for the fourth link layer segment 554 b. The connectors 550 b, 552 b are matched connectors that can be plugged into one another. The fourth physical layer segment 548 b includes a first matching and biasing network 546 b and a second matching and biasing network 556 b. An active cable segment 544 ba is connected to the matching and biasing network 542 b of the third physical layer segment 534 b on one end, and to the matching and biasing network 546 b of the fourth physical layer segment 548 b on the second end. As shown, for one or more example embodiments, the fourth physical layer segment 548 b, fourth link layer segment 554 b, and matching connectors 550 b, 552 b compose a robust connection for an IEEE 1394b network configuration, and the robust connection can be used to non-disruptively disconnect a peripheral device from the IEEE 1394b network involved. Also, in accordance with the present invention, the active cable segment 544 b provides non-disruptive signal and power connectivity between the two physical layer segments 534 b, 548 b.

For one or more example embodiments, the exemplary connector assembly 500 b also includes an active cable segment 516 b connected to the matching and biasing network 556 b of the fourth physical layer segment 548 b on one end, and on the second end to a standard connector 517 b that can be connected to a standard connector 515 b associated with the first physical layer segment 508 b of the standard peripheral connection shown. Also, the exemplary connector assembly 500 b includes an internal physical layer power source 358 b, which can be coupled to the active cable segment 516 b by a power source connection 560 b. Consequently, in accordance with the present invention, the active cables 512 b, 530 b, 544 b and 516 b can provide signal and power source connectivity to each of the robust physical layer segments 520 b, 534 b and 548 b in the IEEE 1394b network involved.

It is important to note that while the present invention has been described in the context of a fully functioning apparatus and method for connectivity, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the processes of the present invention are capable of being distributed in the form of a computer readable medium of instructions and a variety of forms and that the present invention applies equally regardless of the particular type of signal bearing media actually used to carry out the distribution. Examples of computer readable media include recordable-type media, such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a RAM, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, and transmission-type media, such as digital and analog communications links, wired or wireless communications links using transmission forms, such as, for example, radio frequency and light wave transmissions. The computer readable media may take the form of coded formats that are decoded for actual use in a particular apparatus and/or method for connectivity.

The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. These embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. 

1. An apparatus for connectivity in a network, comprising: a first physical layer coupled with a first link layer of a first peripheral device, the first physical layer having a physical connector arranged for connection with the first link layer of the first peripheral device; a second physical layer coupled with a second link layer of a second peripheral device; a first electrically conductive link coupled between the first physical layer and the second physical layer; at least a third physical layer coupled with a third link layer of a third peripheral device; a second electrically conductive link coupled between the first physical layer and the third physical layer; and wherein communication between the second peripheral device and the third peripheral device is maintained through the first electrically conductive link, the first physical layer, and the second electrically conductive link when the first link layer of the first peripheral device is disconnected from the first physical layer.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second physical layer includes a second physical connector for connection with the second link layer of the second peripheral device; and wherein communication between the first peripheral device and the third peripheral device is maintained when the second link layer of the second peripheral device is disconnected from the second physical layer.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first electrically conductive link and the second electrically conductive link are configured to encapsulate the first physical layer, the second physical layer, the third physical layer, and the at least one physical layer power supply into a single electrical cable, wherein the at least one physical layer power supply provides power to the first physical layer, the second physical layer, and the third physical layer.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a third electrically conductive link coupled between the third physical layer and the second physical layer, the third electrically conductive link.
 5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first electrically conductive link, the second electrically conductive link, and the third electrically conductive link are configured to encapsulate the first physical layer, the second physical layer, the third physical layer, and at least one power source into a single electrical cable.
 6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first electrically conductive link, the second electrically conductive link, and the third electrically conductive link comprise an encapsulated electrical cable assembly.
 7. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the third physical layer includes a third physical connector for connection with the third link layer of the third peripheral device; and wherein communication between the first peripheral device and the second peripheral device is maintained when the third link layer of the third peripheral device is disconnected from the third physical layer.
 8. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first electrically conductive link, the second electrically conductive link, and the third electrically conductive link comprise a non-encapsulated electrical cable assembly.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the network comprises a network configured in accordance with protocols of an IEEE 1394 specification.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a power source associated with the first physical layer, the second physical layer, and the third physical layer; and wherein power to the second physical layer and third physical layer from the power source is maintained when the first link layer of the first peripheral device is disconnected from the first physical layer.
 11. An active cable assembly for a robust application in a network of peripheral devices, comprising: a first physical layer communicatively coupled with a first link layer of a first peripheral device; a first connector arranged at a junction of the first physical layer and the first link layer of the first peripheral device; a second physical layer communicatively coupled with a second link layer of a second peripheral device; a first electrically conductive link coupled between the first physical layer and the second physical layer; a third physical layer communicatively coupled with a third link layer of a third peripheral device; a second electrically conductive link coupled between the first physical layer and the third physical layer; and wherein communication between the second peripheral device and the third peripheral device is maintained through the first electrically conductive link, the first physical layer, and the second electrically conductive link when the first link layer of the first peripheral device is disconnected from the first physical layer.
 12. The active cable assembly of claim 11, further comprising: a second connector arranged at a junction of the second physical layer and the second link layer of the second peripheral device; and wherein communication between the first peripheral device and the third peripheral device is maintained when the second link layer of the second peripheral device is disconnected from the second physical layer.
 13. The active cable assembly of claim 11, wherein the network of peripheral devices comprises a network configured in accordance with an IEEE 1394 protocol.
 14. The active cable assembly of claim 12, wherein the first electrically conductive link, the second electrically conductive link, and the third electrically conductive link are configured to encapsulate the first physical layer, the second physical layer, the third physical layer, and at least one physical layer power source into a single electrical cable, wherein the at least one physical layer power source provides power to the first physical layer, the second physical layer, and the third physical layer.
 15. A method for connectivity in a network, comprising: connecting a first physical layer with a first link layer of a first peripheral device at a first connector, the first physical layer associated with the first link layer of the first physical device; providing a second physical layer associated with a second link layer of a second peripheral device; coupling the first physical layer to the second physical layer with a first electrically conductive link; providing a third physical layer associated with a third link layer of a third peripheral device; coupling the first physical layer to the third physical layer with a second electrically conductive link; and maintaining communication between the second peripheral device and the third peripheral device through the first electrically conductive link, the first physical layer, and the second electrically conductive link when the first link layer of the first peripheral device is disconnected from the first physical layer.
 16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: coupling at least one power source to at least one of the first physical layer, the second physical layer, and the third physical layer; and maintaining power to the first physical layer, the second physical layer, and the third physical layer when the first link layer of the first peripheral device is disconnected from the first physical layer.
 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: providing a fourth physical layer associated with a fourth link layer of a fourth peripheral device in the network; and coupling the second physical layer to the fourth physical layer with a third electrically conductive link.
 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: encapsulating the first electrically conductive link, the second electrically conductive link, the third electrically conductive link, the fourth electrically conductive link, the first physical layer, the second physical layer, the third physical layer, the fourth physical layer, and at least one power source into a single electrical cable.
 19. The method of claim 15, further comprising: connecting the second physical layer with the second link layer of the second peripheral device at a second connector; and maintaining communication between the first peripheral device and the third peripheral device through the second electrically conductive link when the second peripheral device is disconnected from the second physical layer.
 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising: coupling the fourth physical layer to the third link layer with a fourth electrically conductive link. 